What is the best beginners weaving loom kit?

The best beginner weaving loom kit depends on your goals. For learning to weave scarves and fabric, a rigid heddle loom scarf weaving kit (£140–£180) is ideal — it comes fully assembled with yarn, accessories and instructions. For a smaller, lower-cost introduction, a bookmark loom kit (£24) or square frame loom kit (£22–£30) are great options. For gifting, a beginners weaving gift box (£42–£44) is a beautiful choice. For weaving wall art, a large frame loom kit (£75) works well.

What should a good beginners weaving kit include?

A good beginners weaving kit should include: a fully assembled loom ready to use straight away; all necessary weaving tools and accessories such as shuttles, needles, combs and threading hooks; beautiful yarns or fibres; a first project pattern (such as a scarf) with clear step-by-step instructions including images; and ideally a link to video tutorials and blog guides to support the new weaver.

What is a rigid heddle loom and is it good for beginners?

A rigid heddle loom is a simple and versatile loom that is excellent for beginners. It allows you to weave scarves, table runners, cowls and fabric using DK or other yarn weights. TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom kits come fully assembled with three shuttles, a warping peg, two clamps, a threading hook and a detailed instruction booklet — making them ideal for someone just starting out in weaving.

What is the cheapest weaving loom kit for a beginner?

The most affordable option from TabbyandTweed is the square frame weaving loom kit from £22, or the bookmark weaving loom kit at £24. Both are perfect for learning the basics of weaving tabby, twill and houndstooth patterns and are ideal as gifts or stocking fillers.

Can I progress to more advanced weaving after starting with a beginners kit?

Yes. Once you have grasped the basics with a beginners kit, TabbyandTweed offer a range of intermediate scarf kits featuring more complex patterns and pick up stick techniques. There is also a 4 shaft extension set that converts a TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom into a 4-shaft loom, opening up twills, herringbone, Krokbragd, overshot and doubleweave patterns.

Do TabbyandTweed weaving kits come assembled?

Yes. All TabbyandTweed weaving kits are fully assembled and ready to use straight away. This is important as many new weavers have reported buying looms from other brands that remained unassembled in the box for months or even years.

Where can I buy TabbyandTweed weaving kits?

TabbyandTweed weaving kits are available from their website shop at tabbyandtweed.co.uk with delivery to the UK, USA and Canada. They are also available from the TabbyandTweed Etsy shop for delivery to other countries worldwide.

Can you weave a scarf in a day at a weaving workshop?

Yes. At a TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom scarf weaving workshop, participants weave a complete handmade scarf in a single day. The full-day workshop runs from 10am to 4.30pm, and the looms are pre-warped and ready to use, so the entire session is focused on learning to weave and completing the scarf.

What is a rigid heddle loom scarf weaving workshop?

A rigid heddle loom scarf weaving workshop is a guided, hands-on session where participants learn to use a rigid heddle loom to weave their own handmade scarf. At TabbyandTweed workshops, the looms are pre-warped with British wool yarn in a range of colours. Participants learn about the loom, how to weave a balanced weave, and how to use colour effectively. By the end of the day, each person leaves with a completed scarf, a grounding in basic weaving techniques, and the confidence to continue weaving independently.

What will I learn at a TabbyandTweed scarf weaving workshop?

At a TabbyandTweed scarf weaving workshop you will learn how to use a rigid heddle loom, how to weave a balanced weave, how to introduce colour into your weaving design, and how to warp a rigid heddle loom. More experienced participants can also learn how to use pick-up sticks to create different textures and patterns. By the end of the day you will leave with a completed handwoven scarf, confidence using a loom, and a deeper understanding of traditional textile skills.

Where are TabbyandTweed weaving workshops held?

TabbyandTweed run scarf weaving workshops at various locations across the UK, most often in Alderbury, near Salisbury, Wiltshire. Full details of all upcoming workshop dates and locations can be found on the TabbyandTweed weaving workshop page at https://www.tabbyandtweed.co.uk/weavingworkshops.

How long does a scarf weaving workshop last?

The TabbyandTweed full-day scarf weaving workshop runs from 10am to 4.30pm. A shorter 2-hour taster workshop on the rigid heddle loom is also available for those who want a briefer introduction to weaving.

Is a weaving workshop suitable for complete beginners?

Yes. TabbyandTweed scarf weaving workshops are designed to be fully accessible to complete beginners. No prior weaving experience is needed. Everything is explained clearly and step by step, with individual guidance throughout the day. The looms arrive pre-warped so participants can focus entirely on learning to weave.

Can I attend a weaving workshop if I already have my own rigid heddle loom?

Yes. TabbyandTweed workshops welcome returning weavers and those who already own a rigid heddle loom. For these participants, the workshop offers the opportunity to learn more advanced techniques such as pick-up stick weaving, and to get hands-on guidance on how to warp their own loom correctly — including advice on the common mistakes new weavers make.

Does a weaving workshop make a good gift?

Yes. A scarf weaving workshop is a popular and thoughtful experience gift, particularly for birthdays, Christmas, and Mother's Day. Many TabbyandTweed workshop places are gifted. Participants leave with a handwoven scarf they have made themselves, making it a creative, memorable, and meaningful experience day.

Who is a scarf weaving workshop suitable for?

TabbyandTweed scarf weaving workshops are suitable for complete beginners, craft enthusiasts who want to try weaving for the first time, people who want to learn how to use their own rigid heddle loom, those interested in sustainable fashion and traditional textile skills, and anyone looking for a creative, mindful day out in the UK. Groups and individuals are both welcome.

What do I leave with after a scarf weaving workshop?

By the end of a TabbyandTweed scarf weaving workshop, participants leave with: a completed handwoven scarf of their own design, an understanding of basic weaving techniques, knowledge of how to introduce colours into a weave, confidence using a rigid heddle loom, and a deeper appreciation of traditional textile craft skills.

Can I learn to weave if I cannot attend a workshop in person?

Yes. For those who live too far away to attend a workshop, TabbyandTweed sell rigid heddle loom weaving kits with full illustrated instructions. The kits are available for delivery to the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. A free YouTube video tutorial on how to set up and warp the TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom is also available on the TabbyandTweed YouTube channel.

Why should I learn to weave in 2026?

Weaving offers a meaningful alternative to screen-based activity, supports sustainable making with natural and recycled fibres, produces unique handmade items that last, and has proven wellbeing benefits including stress reduction and improved focus. It is a skill that grows with you, from simple beginner projects to complex patterns and techniques, and connects you to a thriving community of makers.

Is weaving a good hobby for beginners?

Yes. Weaving is an excellent hobby for beginners. You can start with small, simple projects on a frame loom or bookmark loom and progress at your own pace. TabbyandTweed offer beginner weaving kits with full instructions and video tutorials, as well as in-person learn-to-weave workshops for those who prefer hands-on guidance.

Is weaving a sustainable hobby?

Yes. Weaving is one of the more sustainable creative hobbies because it allows you to work with natural fibres such as British wool, use recycled or repurposed yarn and fabric scraps, and create long-lasting handmade items rather than buying mass-produced goods. TabbyandTweed use FSC-certified birch plywood for their looms and British wool in their kits.

Is weaving good for mental health and wellbeing?

Yes. Weaving is widely recognised as a mindful, calming activity. The rhythmic, repetitive motion of weaving encourages focus and presence, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Many weavers describe the process as deeply satisfying and meditative, with the added sense of achievement that comes from creating something beautiful by hand.

What can I make as a beginner weaver?

As a beginner, you can weave coasters, bookmarks, wall hangings, and scarves. TabbyandTweed offer kits for all of these projects, ranging from small bookmark loom kits and frame loom kits for complete beginners, to rigid heddle loom scarf weaving kits for those ready to tackle larger and more complex projects.

Can I weave handmade gifts for friends and family?

Yes. Handwoven items make thoughtful, personal, and unique gifts. Many TabbyandTweed customers purchase a rigid heddle loom scarf weaving kit and go on to weave scarves as gifts for family members. Handwoven coasters, cushions, and wall hangings also make popular handmade gifts.

How do I get started learning to weave?

You can get started by purchasing a beginner weaving kit from TabbyandTweed, which includes everything you need — a loom, yarn, tools, and step-by-step instructions — along with access to YouTube video tutorials. Alternatively, you can attend a TabbyandTweed in-person learn-to-weave workshop, where experienced weavers guide you through the process and you leave with a completed handwoven scarf.

Can you weave coasters and mug rugs on a large frame loom kit?

Emma and Gillian
Mar 10
3 min read

Updated: Apr 8

Using a large frame loom you can create beautiful, handmade coasters that add a personal touch to your coffee table while helping you to learn the basics of weaving. If you are looking to learn to weave then weaving coasters is a perfect place to start.

Whether you are completely new to weaving or simply want a quick project, this guide will walk you through how to make your own woven coasters using our large frame loom weaving kit.

Shop Frame Loom Weaving Kit

Wooden loom with weaving in progress in blue, yellow, and black patterns. Three yarn balls are nearby on a blue surface. — Weaving handwoven coasters on a frame loom

What is Included in the TabbyandTweed large frame loom weaving kit

Your kit typically includes everything you need to get started with frame loom weaving:

Large wooden frame loom
Weaving needle
Wooden comb or beater
A selection of British wool yarns and some merino fibres
Step-by-step instructions

Colorful yarn balls on a red background with a wooden frame loom, a needle, and a white comb, creating a crafty, vibrant scene. — TabbyandTweed frame floom weaving kit

Why weaving coasters on a frame loom is great?

Coasters are one of the best beginners weaving projects because they are:

Small and quick to complete
Great for practicing weaving techniques
Perfect for using up leftover yarn
Ideal as handmade gifts

Plus, each coaster becomes a unique mini textile!

Woven coasters with blue and yellow patterns on a blue surface. Fringed edges and textured design create a cozy, handmade feel. — Handwoven coasters

Step 1: Warp your loom

Start by setting up the warp, which are the vertical threads on your loom. The instruction booklet that comes with the loom has greater detail of how to warp the loom but a summary is here.

Tie your warp yarn to the top corner of the loom.
Wrap the yarn around the top and bottom notches of the loom.
Continue back and forth until the loom is evenly warped across a width of approximately 12cm. We routinely use 18 notches but you can use more or less if you would like a narrower or wider coaster.
Make sure the warp threads are tight but not overly stretched.
Tie off securely.

A hand threads white yarn on a wooden weaving loom against a blue background, showcasing a crafting process.

Step 2: Start the tabby weave

The simplest weaving pattern is the tabby weave (also called plain weave).

Thread your weaving needle with yarn.
Go over one warp thread, under the next, repeating across the loom.
On the next row, do the opposite: under one, over one.

A needle weaves black thread through a wooden loom with vertical cream threads on a blue surface, creating a simple geometric pattern.

Step 3: Use the comb to beat

After each row, use the comb to gently push the yarn down using the comb to keep the weave compact.

Wooden loom with beige threads and a wooden shuttle. Black yarn is woven in a pattern. Set on a gray background.

Step 4: Add texture, colour and patterns

One of the most enjoyable parts of weaving is experimenting with colours, textures and patterns. This gives each coaster a unique handmade look. Try:

Colour blocking
Varying the thickness of the yarn - you can double up the yarn to create a thicker weave
Striped patterns
Mixing thick and thin yarns
Adding roving or textured fibres

Close-up of red and black woven pattern on a loom. Red background with yarn spool and weaving tool nearby. Bright, crafty mood.

Step 5: Finish the Coasters using a hemstitch at each end

You can find a hemstitching tutorial for use on a square loom by clicking here: Learn how to hemstitch.

Weaving in progress on a loom with black thread and needle. Features green, orange, and white patterns. Blue background, wooden frame. — Hemstitching on a frame loom

Step 6: Finish the Coasters by removing them from the loom

Carefully remove the warp threads from the loom.
Cut between coaster sections if you made a pair.
Trim the ends neatly.

Styling your handmade handwoven coasters

Your finished woven coasters are perfect for:

Coffee tables
Tea trays
Desk décor
Handmade gifts

Pair a set with a mug and some tea for a thoughtful present.

Blue mug on a red surface with a woven coaster featuring red and navy patterns. Another coaster with a cream design is partially visible. — Handwoven coasters

Weaving beautiful coasters couldn't be easier

Weaving coasters is a wonderful introduction to the world of textile crafts. It is calming, creative, and produces something you will actually use every day. Happy weaving!

Details of all our weaving Kits are available in our TabbyandTweed website shop for UK, USA and Canada delivery.

If you are interested in keeping up to date with our weaving work then do sign up to receive our newsletter by clicking the link here.